More about MSP to BLP (Image converter)

MSP to BLP Converter: Transforming Microsoft Paint Images into Blizzard Texture Format

The digital world is full of diverse file formats, each tailored for specific applications. When working with older or specialized formats, such as Microsoft Paint’s .MSP files and Blizzard Entertainment’s .BLP files, file conversion becomes essential for preserving compatibility and maximizing utility. This article explores the process of converting MSP image files into the BLP texture format, often used in games developed by Blizzard, including World of Warcraft and StarCraft.

What is an MSP File?

An MSP file in this context refers to a bitmap image file created using early versions of Microsoft Paint, particularly under DOS-based Windows systems. These files use a monochrome bitmap structure and are rarely seen in modern workflows but still exist in archives, legacy software, or for retro computing purposes. Unlike newer image formats like BMP or PNG, MSP files are very limited in terms of color depth and resolution, typically supporting only black-and-white pixel data.

What is a BLP File?

BLP is a proprietary texture file format developed by Blizzard Entertainment. It is used to store compressed image data (like icons, textures, and UI elements) for integration in games. BLP files support different compression techniques (JPEG, RAW, or DXTC) and can store mipmaps, making them efficient for real-time rendering in 3D environments. They are not standard image files and require specific tools or game engines to view or edit.

Why Convert MSP to BLP?

Although this is a niche requirement, there are a few practical scenarios where one might need to convert an MSP file into BLP format:

• Game Modding: Use retro or custom artwork originally saved in MSP format within a Blizzard game mod or custom UI.
• Asset Archiving: Standardize older MSP graphics into a game’s native format for better integration and performance.
• Preservation and Reuse: Repurpose legacy black-and-white artwork for creative or nostalgic game content.
• Texture Pipeline: Integrate simple MSP drawings or patterns into a modern texture development workflow using BLP as a target format.

How to Convert MSP to BLP

The conversion process is not direct because most modern converters and image editors do not support MSP natively. However, you can achieve the conversion in several steps by first converting the MSP to a more accessible format, like BMP or PNG, and then converting it into BLP using specialized tools.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process:

1. Open or Convert MSP to BMP: Use a legacy image viewer that supports MSP files, such as IrfanView or XnView, to open the MSP image and save it as a BMP or PNG file.
2. Edit (Optional): Use an image editor to enhance or colorize the image if necessary before conversion to BLP. BLP supports color images, so this can be an opportunity to upgrade your image.
3. Convert BMP/PNG to BLP: Use a tool like BLPConverter, BLP Lab, or Warcraft III Viewer to convert the BMP or PNG file into BLP format.

Recommended Tools for Conversion

• IrfanView: A lightweight image viewer that supports older formats including MSP. Ideal for initial conversion to BMP or PNG.
• GIMP or Paint.NET: Good for editing and adjusting images after initial conversion.
• BLP Lab: A dedicated tool for converting standard image formats into Blizzard’s BLP format, with control over compression and mipmaps.
• Warcraft III Viewer: Can preview and convert to and from BLP formats, suitable for game modding.

Technical Considerations

When converting from MSP to BLP, you must take into account several technical factors to ensure compatibility and quality:

• Color Depth: MSP files are typically monochrome, while BLP supports full-color images. Consider enhancing or coloring the image during conversion for better aesthetics.
• Resolution: BLP files typically use resolutions that are powers of two (e.g., 256x256, 512x512). Resize the image accordingly to avoid display issues in-game.
• Compression: Choose the right BLP compression method—JPEG-based for lossy compression, or RAW for uncompressed textures.
• Mipmaps: If the BLP file will be used in 3D rendering, enabling mipmap generation improves visual quality at various scales and distances.

Potential Use Cases

• Custom UI Icons: Turn black-and-white MSP symbols into textured UI icons for World of Warcraft addons.
• 2D Sprites: Use retro MSP drawings as character or item sprites in custom Blizzard maps.
• Game Themes: Convert old MSP assets into colored, scalable BLP textures for retro-style mod themes.

Challenges and Limitations

There are some limitations to consider when performing this type of conversion:

• Lack of Direct Support: MSP files are rarely supported in modern software, requiring extra conversion steps.
• Loss of Simplicity: The monochrome and pixel-perfect nature of MSP files might be altered during enhancement or coloring.
• BLP Viewer Dependence: BLP files are not viewable in standard image viewers; you need Blizzard-specific tools or game engines to preview them.

Tips for a Smooth Conversion

• Always Keep the Original: Retain the original MSP file in case you need to re-process or correct your conversion.
• Test in Game: Before finalizing, test the BLP file within the intended game environment to check compatibility and visual quality.
• Use Batch Tools: If converting multiple MSP files, use batch scripting or tools that support batch operations to save time.

Conclusion

Though uncommon, converting MSP files to BLP format is a valuable process in niche scenarios involving game design, digital preservation, and artistic repurposing. With the right tools and a structured workflow, you can successfully transform vintage Microsoft Paint graphics into usable Blizzard texture files. Whether you're a game modder, archivist, or creative developer, this conversion bridges the gap between the earliest digital art tools and modern interactive applications.